The Ph.D. Molecule, Larry Kirkland, 2017
SERVICES PROVIDED: Design coordination, Materials research, Budget management, Engineering coordination and oversight, Fabricator bid process, Fabrication oversight, Shipping, Installation services, Scheduling, Project close-out.
Artist Larry Kirkland designed the Ph.D. Molecule for the front courtyard of the Wright-Rieman Chemistry Building at the Rutgers University Busch campus. This 27’ tall stainless steel and black granite sculpture includes key elements that relate to the students who walk through the doors every day. A group of chemists was asked what elements were considered most significant to those first learning about chemistry. These chemical equations and elements were then integrated into the sculpture as engravings on the black granite base resembling a chalkboard. The stainless steel molecule that sits atop the black granite base represents the caffeine molecule.
Check out the video embedded below for a behind-the-scenes look into the installation of this work.
Digital modeling and presentation graphics by Mowry Studio. Images courtesy of Craig Collins.
